Birmingham City ‘enter negotiations’ to sign Sheffield United and Cardiff City target

Blues are said to be keen on making Marc Leonard, who didn’t miss a single minute in League One last term, their first signing of the summer transfer window.

The central midfielder certainly isn’t short of interest as Championship clubs Sheffield United, Cardiff City, Plymouth Argyle, Oxford United and Preston North End have been linked. Wrexham, newcomers to League One for next campaign but targeting an immediate promotion, are also in the mix.

Birmingham have begun talks in an attempt to move ahead in the race, reports journalist Alan Nixon. Blues, still managerless following Tony Mowbray’s exit, are looking to commence their summer business by acquiring Leonard’s services.

It’s claimed Brighton, open to a sale, have been contacted ahead of a potential deal worth around £300,000. Leonard’s current contract at the American Express Stadium expires next June, so selling him now would ensure at least some funds are obtained.

Leonard the perfect fit for Birmingham

Blues securing a deal for Leonard would be an excellent start to the transfer window. The seven-time Scotland Under-21 international, still just 22 years of age, was incredibly reliable for a Northampton side that comfortably survived relegation despite being tipped for the drop last term.

Capable of playing in a variety of central midfield roles, Leonard, who scored five and assisted six last term, would offer great versatility to whoever comes in as Birmingham’s next manager. Not missing a single league minute last season was also mightily impressive, proving his reliability and consistency at third-tier level.

It may seem tough for Blues to beat the likes of Sheffield United and Cardiff in the race for Leonard but minutes would likely be reduced somewhat in the division above. Joining Birmingham would give the midfielder a small jump in League One stature while giving him the opportunity to establish himself as a starring figure in a promotion-targeting team.